Boosting UK's EV Market: Jatco and Nissan's New Powertrain Plant in Sunderland

Jatco

Japanese automotive giants Nissan and Jatco, in partnership with the UK government, have announced an ambitious plan to establish a new £48.7 million electric vehicle (EV) powertrain facility in Sunderland, UK, slated to commence in 2026. This strategic move is set to propel the UK further into the forefront of the global EV market.

A Strategic Expansion into Europe

The upcoming facility in Sunderland marks Jatco's first foray into European manufacturing but builds on its robust global presence with existing facilities in Mexico, China, and Thailand. This expansion is expected to significantly enhance Jatco's production capabilities, aiming for an annual output of 340,000 EV powertrains. These powertrains are crucial components, analogous to the engine in traditional petrol and diesel vehicles, and are integral to the operation of electric vehicles.

Innovative Technology and Material Use

The plant will focus on producing Jatco's "3-in-1" electrified powertrains, which integrate the motor, inverter, and reducer into a single compact module. This innovation not only makes the units smaller and lighter but also optimizes performance. The motor, essential for converting electrical to mechanical energy, utilizes rare earth metals such as neodymium, dysprosium, and terbium. The inverter, which converts DC from the battery to AC for the motor, heavily employs copper, while the reducer relies on high-strength steel and alloys that may include nickel and manganese.

Strengthening Local Economy and Sustainable Manufacturing

Sunderland's existing Nissan plant, which began EV production in 2013 and employs 6,000 people, is poised to become an all-electric facility. The city is already home to an Envision AESC gigafactory, further solidifying its status as a key player in the UK's automotive sector. UK business and trade secretary Jonathan Reynolds hailed the new plant as a significant endorsement of the UK's economic environment and its attractiveness as a destination for major investments.